To allow Firestick unknown sources, you must enable the "Apps from Unknown Sources" or "Install Unknown Apps" setting in the Developer Options menu. This permission allows you to sideload apps like Downloader that are not available in the official Amazon Appstore, though you should only install apps from trusted sources to minimize security risks.
Step 1: Go to Firestick settings
This opens the main settings menu where you can adjust device preferences. When setting up a Firestick, accessing this menu is the first step toward customizing your experience, including enabling sideloading capabilities.
Step 2: Select My Fire TV
Inside the settings menu, scroll down and select "My Fire TV." On older Firestick models, this option may be labeled "Device" or "System," or "Device & Software." This section contains advanced settings for your device, including the hidden Developer Options menu.
Step 3: Unhide and open developer options
- Select "About" from the My Fire TV menu.
- Highlight your Fire TV device name (e.g., "Fire TV Stick" or "Fire TV Stick 4K") and press the Select button on your remote rapidly 7 times.
- A message will appear at the bottom of the screen, such as "You are now a developer!" or "No need, you are already a developer," indicating Developer Options have been enabled.
- Press the Back button once to return to the My Fire TV menu.
- "Developer Options" will now be visible in the My Fire TV menu. Select it to proceed.
Step 4: Enable apps from unknown sources
- Inside Developer Options, locate either "Apps from Unknown Sources" or "Install Unknown Apps."
- For older Fire OS versions, select "Apps from Unknown Sources" and turn it "On."
- For newer Fire OS versions (Fire OS 7+), select "Install Unknown Apps." You will then need to toggle the permission to "On" for the specific sideloading application you intend to use (commonly the Downloader app).
This setting grants permission for that specific app to install applications from outside the Amazon Appstore.
Start downloading apps
With the unknown sources permission enabled, your Firestick is now configured to install apps from outside the official Appstore. Use your sideloading app (such as Downloader) to enter the URL of the app you want to install. For a popular streaming option, you can download live net TV on Firestick using this same method, or you can download supersonic streams on Firestick for a high-quality sports and entertainment alternative. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the download and installation process, then launch your new app from the Firestick home screen.
